Remember the childhood saying, “I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream?” This summer, kids have an added incentive to stay safe as Assemblyman Jim Tedisco (R,C,I-Schenectady-Saratoga) is partnering with police departments in Schenectady and Saratoga counties to distribute “good tickets” for free ice cream to reward children who wear their helmets while bicycling, skateboarding and rollerblading.

Tedisco today joined with local police and kids in Glenville to highlight his innovative Safe Summer bike/skate helmet safety program.

“Summer has always been one of my favorite seasons to spend time outdoors and I don’t think there’s a child around who doesn’t scream for ice cream. I want kids to have fun this summer but I also want them to be safe. My Safe Summer program reminds kids to wear their helmets while rewarding good behavior with coupons for free ice cream,” said Tedisco.

The Safe Summer program, which is in its 13th year, is made possible thanks to the Capital Region SAFE KIDS Coalition, and thanks to donations from participating businesses Stewart’s Shops, Ben & Jerry’s and Friendly’s.

“This program is a true community partnership among businesses, law enforcement, government and parents and it’s truly a model for how caring people can come together and promote a fun and safe environment for children. Safe Summer also provides positive interactions between law enforcement and kids,” said Tedisco.